Q. I'm on a diet but really craving a hamburger. From a TKM doctor's perspective, which menu or options would you recommend?

Even as a practitioner, I've had moments where I gave in to a burger craving only to suffer from bloating the next day. If you must have a burger while dieting, keep a few key points in mind. On the positive side, burgers provide a convenient combination of protein and fresh vegetables. However, the primary issues are the refined carbohydrates in the buns, excessive sodium, and sauces that cause blood sugar spikes. From the perspective of Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), many people suffer from 'Spleen Deficiency' (Bi-heo, 脾虛), which impairs digestive function. When the Spleen is weak, consuming flour and greasy foods easily leads to the accumulation of 'Phlegm-fluid' (Dam-eum, 痰飮), a metabolic waste product that makes the body feel heavy and bloated. Furthermore, those with 'Blood Stasis' (Eo-hyeol, 瘀血) due to poor circulation often experience extreme fatigue after high-fat meals. Therefore, I recommend choosing grilled or steamed patties and boldly removing one side of the bun. Pairing your meal with warm tea instead of cola is also highly beneficial. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual constitution—specifically your current digestive strength and the level of accumulated waste in your body. I encourage you to visit the clinic for a brief consultation to assess your current physical state and receive a personalized dietary guide.